Our Services
Specialist in Water Reed and Wheat Reed roofs across Somerset, Dorset, and Wiltshire. Traditional techniques combined with modern reliability.
Re-Thatching
Chris is a specialist in both Water Reed and Wheat Reed / Wheat Straw roofs. When working with Water Reed it is common practice to strip the roof right back to the timbers revealing, the roof's timber structure. With Wheat Straw, however, it is normal that a base coat of straw is left intact which is then thatched over. In both cases any necessary repairs to the roof structure are undertaken before the new weather coat of thatch is fixed. When fixing directly to the timbers a combination of 'screw ties' and steel 'sways' are used; the fixing changes to hazel spars and a straw bond when thatching over an existing basecoat.
Re-Ridging
Chris undertakes all types of ridging, from the most traditional flush ridge to ornate pattern ridges. Ridging is normally needed halfway through the life of a thatched roof. The finest quality wheat straw is always used and Chris prides himself on using English hazel or willow for all his ridges thus investing in the rural tradition of coppice management. Chris welcomes input from the client if they have a style in mind but is equally happy to advise on the best ridging solution - both aesthetically and practically - for each roof.
Maintenance & Repair
All thatched roofs will need some maintenance throughout their life to ensure they perform as efficiently as possible. Cleaning down the surface of the roof so it is free of moss and then 'dressing up' the roof to leave a newly levelled surface helps the roof to shed water efficiently. Specific areas of the roof can sometimes need patching. This can be small-scale or sometimes calls for bigger areas to be patched to ensure the water is shed evenly throughout the roof. Chris undertakes all types of roof maintenance however big or small.
What Our Clients Say
In November Chris Keelty started work on my cottage and annex. He completely re-ridged both roofs and recoated one side of the annex, doing an excellent job on both, completing the work in January. His price was very reasonable. Chris worked hard throughout keeping me informed of progress. I found him reliable and punctual and always very cheerful and therefore it was a pleasure to have him around. I would strongly recommend him as a thatcher.
Ready to Get Started?
Contact us today for a free consultation and quote. We're here to help with all your thatching needs.